Key Suspect in 'Lime Scandal' and Driver Who Aided Escape Receive Suspended Sentences in First Trial

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] A driver who helped a key suspect in the Lime Asset Management scandal escape and was brought to trial received a suspended sentence in the first trial.

On the 18th, Judge Lee Sang-hoon of the Seoul Southern District Court Criminal Division 11 sentenced driver Kim, who was indicted on charges of aiding a criminal's escape, to 10 months in prison with a 2-year suspension. Another Kim and Bae, who were also indicted, were each sentenced to 6 months in prison with a 2-year suspension.

Kim and others, who worked as drivers for former Shinhan Financial Investment team leader Shim, were indicted for embezzling about 70 million won of company funds under Shim's instructions and providing escape funds. They were also charged with providing Shim with a hiding place, food, and daily necessities.

After the Lime scandal broke out, former team leader Shim fled without attending the pre-trial detention hearing in November last year when an arrest warrant was requested. He remained on the run for five months before being arrested in April this year along with former Lime Vice President Lee Jong-pil and others.

The court stated, "The defendants helped one of the criminals involved in a matter of great public interest, former team leader Shim, who did not attend the pre-trial detention hearing and fled, to evade capture for a considerable period," and "Based on the defendants' statements, guilt is recognized."

It further explained the sentencing by saying, "Considering that the defendants testified truthfully to the investigative authorities after their arrest, causing little obstruction to the investigation, and their remorse for the crime."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.